Should I apply moisturizer immediately after serum?

Author: Elwyn Hickle  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

If you decide to use both serum and moisturizer, you should always apply the serum first (lighter products go before heavier ones). After applying, wait a minute or two to allow the product to absorb into your skin. Then, apply moisturizer. Also, pay attention to the type of serum and moisturizer you're using.

How long should I wait to apply moisturizer after serum?

Let the serum properly settle into your skin before going in with a moisturiser. The recommended time is usually 4-5 minutes. You know your serum is doing a good job when it is seamless ---- this means no oily residue or tackiness post application.

Should I let serum sit before moisturizer?

You should typically wait about 2 minutes after applying a serum before proceeding with your moisturizer and sunscreen. This allows the serum time to be fully absorbed into your skin so that it can fully reap the benefits. Waiting a few extra minutes is worth it for optimal results!

What not to do after applying serum?

What not to do after applying serum? After applying face serums you should never use any other skincare product immediately. Wait for a few minutes to allow it to get absorbed in your skin before you follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen.

How long does it take to let serum absorb?

If the bottle doesn't have clear instructions, 30 seconds to a minute is typically considered enough time for those who don't want to wait too long between products. If you have time to spare, you may wait 15-20 minutes for maximum absorption before moving on in your routine.

Using Serums? Avoid these 5 common serum mistakes!

How long to wait between hyaluronic acid and moisturizer?

Wait for the serum to absorb: Give the serum some time to absorb into your skin. This usually takes a few minutes. You'll know the serum has been absorbed when your skin feels soft and smooth. Apply moisturizer: Once the serum has been absorbed, apply your moisturizer on top of it.

How long should I leave serum on my face?

How long should I leave serum on my face? Serums need time to absorb into your skin so washing them off straight away is counterproductive. Let the product melt into your skin for about 90 seconds before finishing your routine with moisturiser – locking everything in place.

Can I skip moisturizer after serum?

You can skip moisturiser after applying serum on your face. But please don't. Both serum and moisturiser can provide aid to your skin in unique ways.

What are the disadvantages of face serum?

Drawbacks Of Using Face Serum Every Day
  • Face serums can be more expensive than other skincare products.
  • People with sensitive skin may face irritation, redness or breakouts if the serum's formulation doesn't suit them. ...
  • Even when used daily, you should only use a small amount of serum.

How many drops of serum should I use?

Step 1: Take a pea-sized amount (about 3-4 drops) of a face serum from the dropper onto your palms. Step 2: Spread it between your palms without rubbing the product too much. Step 3: Dab the serum all over your face and neck using small and gentle tapping motions.

What is the best serum to use in the morning?

Skin brightening, hydrating and collagen boosting, a Vitamin C serum sits firmly in the 'best for AM use' category. This is because Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, which help to mitigate the free radical damage – and subsequent signs of photo-ageing – triggered by UV radiation.

What are the 7 steps of skincare?

  • Step 1: Cleansing. Start with the basics: skin cleansing. ...
  • Step 2: Exfoliation. Eliminate impurities and dead cells by carrying out an effective exfoliation. ...
  • Step 3: Mask. Apply a mask specific for you. ...
  • Step 4: Toner. ...
  • Step 5: Serum or concentrate. ...
  • Step 6: Eye contour. ...
  • Step 7: Moisturising cream. ...
  • Step 8: Sun protection!

Should I use face serum every day?

Many facial serums can be applied every day, but some need to be slowly introduced or used less often. Be sure to check the directions for use related to your facial serum of choice or consult a skincare expert. Serums are designed to be applied after cleansing but before moisturising.

Can you layer moisturizer over serum?

When it comes to layering skincare products, there's one simple rule to remember – always go from thinnest to thickest. So, in this case, serums come before moisturiser.

Is it better to pat or rub serum?

In contrast to rubbing in your skincare products, patting is supposedly more gentle and it helps skin care products penetrate the skin better.

How long should you wait between serum and moisturizer?

Serum and Moisturizer: 1 minute

Goldenberg's go-to recommendation for timing between serums and moisturizers is about one minute. This wait has the same reasoning: Sixty seconds — give or take — gives each product a moment to delve into your pores.

What is the best night moisturizer?

Our top pick for the best night cream is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream, as it's great for all skin types and provides long-lasting hydration. Another fantastic option is La Roche-Posay's Double Repair Moisturizer, which leaves the skin feeling nourished, soft, and supple—all for under $25.

How long should you wait for serum to dry before moisturizer?

There is no wait time required between applying your serum and moisturizer. You can even choose to mix them together in the palm of your hand before applying. (Exception: a daytime moisturizer with sunscreen shouldn't be mixed into other formulas since doing so could hinder the level of protection).

Should I put moisturizer right after serum?

It's best to apply face serum first, as it can penetrate the skin more deeply and deliver active ingredients. Wait a minute or so after applying the serum to let it absorb before applying moisturizer on top. Note that you should always refer to the label to properly use the product.

What is the best face moisturizer?

Some of the best brands include:
  • CeraVe: Known for their gentle, dermatologist recommended moisturizers.
  • La Roche-Posay: Offers a wide range of affordable skincare products, including non-comedogenic moisturizers.
  • Kiehl's: Known for their effective, high end skincare products.

What happens if I put too much serum on my face?

You'll start to feel a slight burn or tingle when you apply lotions or serums. “If you continue down that path, redness starts to come and then flaky skin,” says Dr.

How long should you wait for serum to absorb?

It typically depends on whether it's oil- or gel-based, but most serums start absorbing immediately. Some skincare formulas can take up to 30 minutes to fully absorb — but that doesn't mean you have to wait that long between skincare steps. Most skincare products are designed to begin absorbing right away.

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